It was a slow start for Justin Longmuir and the Dockers but as they enter the back half of the season, the rookie coach’s impact on the team is starting to be reflected in the win column. How has Bozza graded their first half of 2020?
Can’t get enough footy? Check out more of our Pinch Hitters Mid Season Report Cards here.
What’s gone right
Whatever Longmuir said at quarter time against St Kilda must qualify for what’s gone right. Trailing by five goals, for all intents and purposes the Dockers were dead in the water against the Saints. Yet by 3/4 Time they were infront before hanging to record a famous victory on the Gold Coast.
While fielding one of the youngest teams in the competition has been the cause of inconsistent performances, it has also shown what promise lies ahead. The likes of Brayshaw, Cerra and Serong have thrived at times this season and are set to thrill Dockers fans for some time to come.
What’s gone wrong
While it has now been endured by the majority of teams, being forced into hub life for the competition restart was a hurdle. While the on-field struggles of their cross-town rivals stole most of the spotlight, it was no less difficult for the Dockers.
The Derby loss would have been particularly galling, given it came in their first game back home in front of fans. Coming off two consecutive wins they would have given themselves a chance of causing an upset but instead fell to a disappointing defeat.
Injuries have also plagued the team. Their backline has been particularly badly hit with Joel Hamling, Alex Pearce and Griffin Logue all sidelined. Jesse Hogan has barely gotten on the park while the club’s superstars Nat Fyfe and Michael Walters have also spent time in the grandstand.
Standout player
Michael Walters
After nine rounds Walters was in Fremantle’s top six for every statistic bar hit outs. He leads the club in Disposals, Clearances, Contested Possessions. Is second for goals and inside 50s. Third for Tackles, Uncontested Possessions and Goal Assists. Fifth for Rebound 50s and sixth for Contested Marks.
Run home
| Rd 12 | Carlton | Optus Stadium |
| Rd 13 | Sydney | Optus Stadium |
| ? | GWS | ? |
| ? | Melbourne | ? |
| ? | North Melbourne | ? |
| ? | Richmond | ? |
| ? | Western Bulldogs | ? |
With just two top eight opponents left to play in 2020, on paper, the Docker have one of the kinder runs home. Finals are probably a bridge too far but there is no reason that they can’t finish strongly.
Final Grade
C
There is quite a bit of fight in this Dockers team and they are developing nicely in the first year of the Longmuir era.
Can’t get enough footy? Check out more of our Pinch Hitters Mid Season Report Cards here.